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Standard garden sprayers consist of a tank, pump assembly, hose and nozzle configuration for applying herbicides and insecticides across your garden. Using chemicals under pressure from the pump assembly, your garden sprayer allows you to control the liquid's spray distance and pattern so that the chemicals reach their target areas, such as under hanging leaves. Over time, sprayers develop problems that may only need basic maintenance solutions for a properly working tool.

Leaks

If you notice any leaks emanating from the hose, nozzle or valve connections, you must stop using the sprayer immediately and release its internal pressure with the relief valve, as dripping chemicals across the yard may injure nearby plants and animals. Each one of these connections has an O-ring, or gasket, that pads the interior attachment point. Over time, these gaskets shift or crack. Once you pinpoint the leaking gasket, a thorough observation of its construction is in order. If it is cracked, it needs replacement. Otherwise, a quick gasket repositioning should fix the leaking area.

Clogs

Tiny dirt particles clog nozzles and hoses over time, especially if the tank is not thoroughly cleaned. If you find that your spray pattern is blocked, a clog is your problem. After releasing the tank's pressure with the relief valve, you must remove the problematic part, such as the nozzle, and run water through it. Using a standard garden hose against the clog should fix the part quickly. It is not good practice to insert tools within the sprayer's individual parts or use a high pressure water machine, as the sprayer's parts are easily broken by hard tools and rapidly concentrated water.

No Pressure

Most garden sprayers use a pump assembly to create the internal pressure and you move the pump handle up and down to increase pressure. However, your sprayer may demonstrate poor pressure just by observing the water flow, sputtering out of the nozzle with no force at all. Opening the tank and removing the pump assembly is the best course of action to pinpoint the problem. Water leaks into the pump indicate either a bad gasket or a cracked pump assembly. Replacing cracked or worn parts should revive your sprayer for normal use.

Problem Prevention

Garden sprayers stand the test of time with periodic maintenance. Taking some time to inspect the sprayer before the growing season can avoid problems. Any found dry gaskets need lubrication, typically with petroleum jelly. However, your specific owner's manual will offer particular lubrication needs. Keeping the gaskets lubricated prevents leaks down the road. You can also replace them if they are cracked or damaged from wintertime storage. Additionally, rinsing and washing the tank out between chemical applications prevents internal damage from corrosion.

About the Author

Writing professionally since 2010, Amy Rodriguez cultivates successful cacti, succulents, bulbs, carnivorous plants and orchids at home. With an electronics degree and more than 10 years of experience, she applies her love of gadgets to the gardening world as she continues her education through college classes and gardening activities.